A neurological pharmacist, otherwise known as a neuroscience pharmacist or neurology pharmacist, is a pharmacy practitioner who works closely with healthcare teams to provide pharmaceutical care for patients with neurological disorders, including epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and Alzheimer's disease. Neuroscience pharmacists' key roles include monitoring and amending medication plans, reviewing patient responses to medications, and informing patients and caregivers of potential drug side effects. Neuroscience pharmacists also collaborate on clinical research projects to develop new treatments and optimise existing neurological therapies.

To become a neuroscience pharmacist, you’ll need key skills, such as effective communication skills, teamwork capabilities, and a keen attention to detail. Another important aspect of being a neuroscience pharmacy professional is being passionate about delivering a high level of care to your community.

You will also the following pharmaceutical qualifications:

• Four years of full-time study (in England and Wales - five years in Scotland) to gain a Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) degree
• One year practising full time as a trainee pharmacist 
• General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration, which requires each pharmacist to pass an assessment

Once you’re registered with the GPhC, you’ll be able to seek out opportunities to practise pharmaceutical neuroscience professionally, but you’re welcome to join our Neuroscience Community at any point throughout your training to meet fellow pharmacists and learn from leaders in the sector.

The role of neurological pharmacist professionals can frequently vary but can include:

• Dispensing and managing medications for neurological conditions, such as Alzheimer's and epilepsy
• Providing patient counselling on the proper use of neurological medications, including their potential side effects
• Reviewing and optimising medication plans for neurological patients 
• Monitoring drug therapy outcomes and adjusting treatment plans accordingly
• Conducting medicine reconciliation with neurology patients during hospital admissions and discharges
• Educating patients and caregivers about neurological conditions and the importance of proper medication use
• Participating in clinical trials and studies relating to neuropharmacology
• Collaborating with healthcare professionals on drug-induced neurological side effects and constructing effective management plans
• Providing training to healthcare professionals on new findings in pharmaceutical neuroscience 
• Managing inventory and ensuring availability of neurological medications

As the role of a neuroscience pharmacist varies, the environment they work in can frequently change too. Members of our neuroscience network work in a variety of healthcare environments, primarily within hospitals and neurology clinics, where they are integral members of healthcare teams managing patients with neurological disorders.

Join our Neuroscience Community to learn from leading pharmacy practitioners working across all neuroscience areas to encourage you as you progress your career.